1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
377.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 9.4 g | 12% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 28.3 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 566.0 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 47.2 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| protein | 18.9 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 47.2 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 283.0 mg | 6% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Penne with meat sauce
Penne with meat sauce is a classic Italian dish celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Originating in Italy, this pasta dish features tubular penne noodles and a hearty, tomato-based meat sauce made with ground beef or pork, onions, garlic, and fragrant Italian herbs. Nutritionally, penne provides complex carbohydrates for energy, while the meat adds high-quality protein. Tomatoes contribute vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene. The dish is moderately high in calories due to its carbohydrate and fat content, making it suitable as a main meal but best enjoyed in balanced portions.
Health Benefits
- Provides protein from the meat, crucial for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in lycopene from tomatoes, an antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces oxidative stress.
- Contains dietary potassium from tomatoes, which aids in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming. Freezing is also an option—freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Common Questions About Penne with meat sauce Nutrition
How much protein and calories are in penne with meat sauce?
A typical serving of penne with meat sauce (one cup, around 250 grams) contains approximately 15-20 grams of protein and 300-400 calories. The exact nutritional content depends on the recipe, including the type and amount of meat, pasta, and sauce used.
Is penne with meat sauce suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Penne with meat sauce is not typically keto-friendly due to the high carbohydrate content in the pasta. A one-cup serving of penne contains about 40-45 grams of carbs, which exceeds the daily carb allowance for most keto dieters. However, substituting regular penne with low-carb or keto-friendly pasta alternatives can make the dish compatible with a lower-carb diet.
Are there any health benefits or concerns with eating penne with meat sauce?
Penne with meat sauce provides a good source of protein and energy and can offer vitamins like B12 and iron from the meat. However, it may be high in saturated fat and sodium, depending on the type of meat and sauce used. Opting for lean meat and low-sodium sauce can make it a healthier choice.
What is the recommended portion size for penne with meat sauce?
A recommended portion size for penne with meat sauce is about one to one-and-a-half cups, or roughly 250-350 grams. This amount provides a balanced meal when paired with a side of vegetables or a salad.
How does penne with meat sauce compare to other pasta dishes?
Compared to cream-based pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo, penne with meat sauce is generally lower in calories and fat. However, it can have more protein due to the meat content. For a lighter alternative, consider tomato-based sauces with vegetables instead of meat.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
